What's a library?
In this day and age of the Internet we've gotten so used to having all sorts of information at our finger tips, or if it's not quite at our finger tips it's a mere click away. Is it because of this that we've forgotten our childhood friend, The Library? With Internet services abound, we can order any book at the drop of a hat.
Some people look at me stunned when I mention I have books on hold at the library, or are shocked to learn that they can order DVDs from their local branch. Don't they remember how convenient the library was why they were a child? Reaching in any direction, hands landing on a favourite Frog and Toad book or a new Curious George adventure. I want to shout from the rooftops that nothing has changed.
Instead of heading out to the big box bookstores every time you read a review of a book in the paper, or want a recipe from that new cookbook, just head to your local library. Enjoy searching through the stacks to locate your desired book (I guarantee you'll find many other gems along the way). If the library doesn't appear to have the book you're looking for, ask the librarian to search the database and put it on hold for you. Or, if you really don't want to leave your desk, browse your library's catalogue online. You can order a book, place holds and search the database from home, too.
Quick tip: Don't forget to check out the movie section at the library. They have great new releases, interesting documentaries and classic oldies. Plus, you can take them out for about a week for FREE!
So, do the world a favour! Save the odd tree and stop adding to your mountain of books. Your local used booksshop does not need another copy of Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises, trust me, and chances are they won't buy that latest diet trend book. Next time you want to check out a book, order it from the library. If you fall in love with it, then you can justify buying it.
Questions for you: Do you use your local library? Why? Why not? What's the best book you've ever read? What are you reading right now? Do you give away books after you read them? Or, do you have to own a copy of everything you've ever read?
Read more:
• Get your kids reading
• Encourage a love of reading
September 18th, 2008 at 6:51 am
I rarely use my public library as I live in a very small town & the selection is not great. Besides I prefer to read in english & 70% of the books are in french. I have however found a used book store in a neighboring town where I can get great deals AND they rent out current best sellers very cheaply. If I do buy a book new I usually sell it to the bookstore and use the money to rent another. They also sell used CD's & DVD's. While not as good a having a great library, it's the best solution for our family.
September 18th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Oooh, lots of questions!
Yes, we use the library.
Because my kids do research there for projects and my seven-year-old isn't too cool for it yet.
Best book read? Lolita. When Rabbit Howls. We Need to Talk about Kevin. Alden Nowlan poetry books. That's more than one, I know.
Reading now: Raising Boys Without Men.
If I loved the book, I keep it. If I loved it but know I'll never refer to it or read it again, I'll give it to someone. If I read it and wasn't knocked out by it, yard sale or charity. Kids books to a childcare centre or shelter.
I have books I bought when I was 13 and knew I would have children to read them to or pass them on to. Pack rats UNITE!
September 19th, 2008 at 9:07 am
My fave thing from the library (Toronto has one of the best libraries in the world!) is magazines. Sometimes you can get brand-new ones, the exact ones that are on the newsstand. Pick up 3 magazines and you've saved yourself almost $20. I also like getting documentary-type DVDs and videos, and even Hollywood movies, they have those too!
I remember I used to go with my mom every week, back when the library card was just a piece of laminated paper.
September 19th, 2008 at 4:16 pm
I guess I take for granted having such a large library at my finger tips! It sounds like your used bookstore is the next best thing, Kimberly. At least you don't have to pay the late fines!!